Round up a few key cleaning essentials to tackle the hard-to-reach places under these major kitchen appliances.
Why It’s Important to Clean Under Kitchen Appliances
Over time, debris accumulates in your kitchen—especially in those hard-to-reach places, such as under your major appliances, says Leanne Stapf, the COO of The Cleaning Authority. As a result, you’ll need to set up a cleaning routine (at least every three to four months) to refresh this area. “Too much debris building up can also affect the way your appliances run,” she says. “For example, if dust begins to cover your fridge coils, this will cause it to work much harder to keep things cool.”
I’ve noticed in my own kitchen that neglecting these spots can lead to sneaky little problems—like a faint musty smell or even tiny pests finding a cozy home. Experts often point out that dust and grime under appliances don’t just affect performance; they can also be a fire hazard, especially near stoves where grease can build up. A study from the National Fire Protection Association suggests that unaddressed kitchen debris contributes to thousands of home fires each year, so I make it a habit to check these areas regularly. It’s a small effort that keeps my appliances humming along and my kitchen safer—definitely worth the time!
How to Clean Under Kitchen Appliances Without Moving Them
You don’t have to move these cumbersome appliances to clean the crevices below them, so long as you have the right tools in your arsenal. “To clean underneath appliances without moving them, I recommend using a flat vacuum attachment that can clean hard-to-reach places and slide underneath the dishwasher,” says Stapf. “Another option is to take a microfiber cloth and attach it to the stick end of your mop (or a similar item).” From there, you can use the cloth-covered mop to get underneath your stove, dishwasher, or oven to collect the buildup of debris.
What You’ll Need
- Vacuum with multiple attachments
- Low-profile mop
- Microfiber cloth
Follow these steps to clean under each major kitchen appliance:
Dishwashers
To clean under your dishwasher, unscrew the kickplate at the bottom of the appliance under the door, says Jessica Petrino, an educator and appliance expert at AJ Madison. Continue by cleaning underneath the area with a vacuum or dust brush.
Built-In Refrigerators
For this appliance, Petrino recommends removing the plate covering the motor and using a vacuum upholstery tool to remove collected dust.
Stoves
If you have a range with a tight gas connection or anti-tip bracket, you probably won’t be able to get underneath the stove easily. “With some pro-style ranges, you can run a vacuum underneath,” says Petrino. “You may need to remove the kickplate under the oven door to get access. With models that have a drawer underneath, you will want to do the best to Swiffer under the drawer and run a cloth along the sides between the oven and the counters.” If you have a slide-in range, you’re in luck. According to Petrino, many have wings that overlap the counters, preventing crumbs or spills from getting trapped alongside the stove.
I’ve found that a little trick works wonders here: if your vacuum attachment isn’t quite reaching, try a flexible duster—those bendy ones you find at hardware stores. They grab dust and crumbs like nobody’s business! Also, consider keeping a small stash of these tools near your kitchen; it’s a game-changer for quick cleanups. A pro tip from my own trial and error—dampen the microfiber cloth slightly with water or a mild cleaner for stickier spots, but don’t soak it. You don’t want moisture lingering under there, as it can encourage mold. This approach keeps things simple and effective without breaking your back moving heavy stuff!
How to Clean Under Kitchen Appliances by Moving Them
If you’re still struggling to get all the dirt and dust out from under your stove and refrigerator, or want to get a deeper clean, move them.
What You’ll Need
- Mop
- Masonite
- Vacuum or broom
Follow these steps to move and clean under your major kitchen appliances:
- Unplug the items to avoid potential safety hazards, says Stapf.
- From there, Petrino recommends adding masonite on your floors to protect them during this process.
- Once you move your stove or refrigerator, vacuum or sweep the area to remove any dust and crumbs.
- Wipe with a mop dampened with all-purpose floor cleaner.
- Once the surface is dry, quickly vacuum or sweep again to ensure the area is clean, says Stapf.
Professional Care
Since a dishwasher is often more permanent and therefore impossible to move, Stapf recommends calling a professional to remove the appliance properly. “Once done, you can use the same approach as a refrigerator or stove,” she says.
Moving appliances can feel daunting, but I’ve learned a few things that make it easier. For one, masonite is a lifesaver for protecting floors—scratches are no joke, especially on hardwood! If you don’t have masonite, a thick towel or even an old yoga mat can work in a pinch. Also, be gentle when shifting your fridge or stove; a friend of mine once tugged too hard and dented her floor. Safety’s key, so double-check that unplugged cord! And here’s a practical nugget: after mopping, I like to sprinkle a tiny bit of baking soda under there before sliding the appliance back. It helps absorb any lingering odors, keeping your kitchen fresh for months.
Cleaning & Organizing
Keeping these areas clean ties into a bigger picture of kitchen organization. I’ve found that pairing this deep-cleaning task with a quick declutter—say, tossing expired pantry items—makes the whole space feel refreshed. Experts often suggest a simple trick: after cleaning under appliances, wipe down nearby cabinets or counters too. It’s amazing how a little extra effort ties it all together! Plus, a clean, organized kitchen cuts down on stress—studies show a tidy space can boost your mood and even make cooking more fun. So, grab those tools and give your kitchen the love it deserves!
